Cubs stretch vs. playoff contenders continues

CHICAGO – The Cubs kick off a three-game series tonight versus the Reds, part of a 10-day, 10-game homestand.

They've won seven of their last 10 games and will try to prevent the Reds from clinching the National League Central at Wrigley Field. The Cubs cap the homestand with a three-game set with the Cardinals, who currently hold the second Wild Card spot.

Tonight marks Dusty Baker's 3,000th game as a manager in his 19th year. Baker spent four seasons as the Cubs' manager (648 games).